Einstein didn't just discover relativity, he proved the existence of atoms in 1905 — more than 110 years ago. Discover how he did it and begin learning about basic chemistry: parts of an atom, atomic mass, atomic number, and how to read a periodic table. Expose your class to the variety of concepts through this introductory video on atoms.  

Concepts

atoms, protons, neutrons, electrons, atomic numbers, atomic mass, isotopes, atomic mass number

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Use video as an introduction to parts of an atom
• Preview the video and write questions to ask the class during pre-selected pauses
• Place class in think-pair-share partners, to answer scripted questions
• Have partners record answers in notebook or pre-written note sheet
• Flip your classroom by assigning this video as homework and ask scripted questions the next day in class

Classroom Considerations

• Some districts block YouTube videos; download the video if necessary
• Requires a projection system to show the video  

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Video engages high schoolers through fast-paced dialogue and simple images to help visualize abstract science
• Not only is the concept of atoms and their parts taught, but the lesson incorporates a brief history including the scientists behind the discovery of the atom 

Cons

• Depending upon the level of the learner, the video covers a number of potentially new vocabulary words in ten minutes; you might need more class time to allow pupils to master the objectives   

Common Core

RST.9-10.4